Eye Problems in Children: Signs to Look For

Topic Overview

Parents are often the first to notice vision problems in a young
child. A vision exam may be needed if your child:

Is clumsy (beyond normal toddler clumsiness) and
fails to notice new things around him or her.

Squints when the
light is not bright or scrunches up his or her face when trying to do a
task.

Rubs his or her eyes when the child is not tired (rubbing
eyes when tired is normal).

Squints when the light is turned on or
stares at lights.

Has excessive tearing when not
crying.

Has frequent eye infections, swollen eyelids, or frequent
styes.
Conjunctivitis (pinkeye) is a common problem in
children.

Has eyes that seem to bulge, bounce, or dance in rapid
regular movements.

Often tilts the head to one side as though
trying to see better.

Often covers one eye or shuts one eye because
he or she is uncomfortable. All children will sometimes cover or close an eye
to experiment with their vision and see how the world looks with only one eye
open.

Avoids tasks or play that requires good vision, like looking
at books.

Holds books or toys too close or sits too close to the TV
screen.

Has eyes that look mismatched or crossed or that don't move
together.

Has pupils that are not the same size or that appear
white instead of black.

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